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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
France
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Old Stones and Lot Villages
Dordogne
France
Located in the heart of France's southwest between Auvergne and Périgord, the Lot is surrounded by the Massif Central mountains to the east and the plains of the Garonne to the west and south.
Also known as the ancient province of Quercy, the Lot is a land full of wonderful surprises including steep villages with brown tiles, wilderness of the Causse and opulence of its rivers (Lot and Dordogne).
On this ride, you will get the chance to discover Rocamadour (the sacred city), the Saint-Sauveur basilica and the Saint-Amadour crypt, classified as World Heritage by UNESCO. Other highlights include the local wines and gastronomy as well as wonderful horses!
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
Suitable for riders over 210 lbs
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Meeting:
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Puy L'eveque
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Airport:
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Bordeaux Airport
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Transfer:
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Monsempron-Libos train station
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Riders:
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Min
5 riders
Max
10 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2021
Rates include*:
Accommodations, All meals, Wine with lunch & 6 riding days
Saddlebags, ponchos and water are provided during this trip.
| A | 2021 | 8 day trip, AP | 8d / 7n | €1765 | $2100 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Rates Note:
Single supplement will be applied if we cannot find another rider to share.
Transfer and Other Charges:
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2021
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Single supplement
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€
460
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$550
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2021
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Non-rider rate
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€
1,340
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$1,595
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2021
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Transfer from/to Monsempron-Libos train station, roundtrip, pp
- to be paid locally
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€
20
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$25
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Pick-up/ drop-off for this trip is possible from Monsempron-Libos train station for an extra fee.
Pick-up is scheduled for 6:30pm on Day 1. On the last day, you will leave the hotel after breakfast, and be dropped off at the train station around 9:00 am.
Rates do not include:
Beverages in hotels and restaurants, Transfers, Entrance fees & Gratuities
Note:
Due to COVID-19 Corona virus pandemic and certain travel restrictions we are applying some temporary policy changes to some of our tours.
For Old Stones and Lot Villages (IT-FRABR07):
If your booking is affected by the coronavirus pandemic, it is possible to postpone your trip to a later date in 2021 (depending on availability). It is also possible to postpone your trip to 2022, but you will need to pay the price difference.
With regards to accommodations and restaurants, the French government has imposed strict health rules for all establishments receiving guests so we trust our yearlong partners to apply them correctly for our clients.
Regarding horse riding, the equipment is cleaned and disinfected between each stay. In addition, it is only our team that prepares the horses and manipulates the tack and clients team up with the same horse for the whole week .
Our lunches are served as a buffet but instead of it being self-service, it is our team who will provide the service.
Hydro alcoholic gel will be available freely throughout the horse trail .
We don't impose wearing a mask on the trail (the French riding federation and the French government don't require wearing one while horse riding) but of course, riders can bring their own mask for hotels, restaurants & sightseeing visits if they feel the need of wearing one .
We ask that you follow the hygienic measures below during your stay:
- wash your hands regularly with soap and water (access to which must be facilitated by providing disposable towels) or by hydro-alcoholic friction;
- systematically cover your nose and mouth by coughing or sneezing into your elbow;
- blow your nose in a disposable handkerchief and dispose of it immediately in a trash can;
- avoid touching your face, especially your nose, mouth and eyes.
- masks must be worn systematically by everyone when the rules of physical distance cannot be guaranteed.
For more information please visit our COVID-19 Updates page at https://www.hiddentrails.com/article/covid19update.aspx
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Sample Itinerary - subject to changes
The itinerary may be modified at any time for security reasons, meteorological or other events beyond our control such as blocked roads, rivers in flood, drought, strikes, and local holidays. We will always strive to find the best solution and will alter the itinerary as needed.
Day 1: Arrival
Riders with vehicles may arrive in the late afternoon to the first night accommodation. Riders arriving by train will be collected in the late afternoon at the SNCF train station of Monsempron-Libos.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Puy l’évêque
Day 2: Ride to Cazals
After breakfast, riders are introduced to their horses. We will begin our trek around 10am, making our way to Frayssinnet-le-Gelat Lake, where we stop for lunch. Our afternoon ride brings us to Cazals, an ancient fortified village founded in 1319 by the Seneschal of the King of England: Guillaume de Toulouse or Tolza. This village is characterized by a vast central courtyard around which many houses were built to accommodate the clientele of the numerous friars and the teams driving animals with their drivers. The bastide, or fortified village, was largely destroyed in 1588 when the Marshall of Biron, the Seneschal of Quercy, shot down the village walls.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a B&B in Marminiac
Day 3: Cazals to Le Vigan
In the morning we resume our trek on the road to Le Vigan, near the confluence of the Bleou and Seguy rivers, right in the heart of Haute Bouriane. Our picnic is waiting for us at the foot of the ruins of L'Abbaye Nouvelle, a Cistercian abbey. Our afternoon trail takes us to Le Vigan, originally called Carbonnac until the 11th century. The ending “ac” dates this settlement back to the days of the Celts or at least to the Gallo-
Romans. In this village we discover a magnificent and impressive church abbey from the 13-14th centuries.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a B&B in Le Vigan
Day 4: Le Vigan to
After breakfast, we continue our ride towards the Cougnaguet Mill, which was strengthened by Cougnaguet in the 13th century. We will have our picnic break here. The construction of the mill was conducted by Cistercian monks and lasted for 50 years. We journey on after lunch to travel through limestone plateaus, crops, and oak forests.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a B&B in Rocamadour
Day 5: Rocamadour
Today, we ride to Rocamadour, a small but exceptional village. In the heart of the Parc Naturel Regional des Causses du Quercy, the medieval city of Rocamadour challenges the laws of gravity. Towers, houses, and dungeons cling to the limestone cliffs composing a haughty picture of Christendom. We enjoy our picnic at our guesthouse which leaves us the afternoon to explore the village.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a B&B in Rocamadour
Day 6: Rocamadour to Souloumes
Today we leave Rocamadour behind as we climb the heights to Carlucet, where our picnic lunch awaits. We then take the trail to Labastide Murat. This ancient fortified village is situated on the limestone plateau of Gramat. We overnight in Souloumes.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a B&B in Soulomes
Day 7: Souloumes to Saint Denis Catus
After breakfast, we follow the valley of le Vers to arrive at the mill of Maquefave where we will have our picnic lunch. We conclude our ride in the village of Saint Denis Catus.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Puy l’évêque
Day 8: Departure
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, riders may depart by car or will be transferred to the train station.
Meals included: Breakfast
Non Riders
Non-riding companions are welcome to join this trip. It is best to have a car in order to do some sightseeing while the rest of the group explores on horseback.
Meeting:
Puy L'eveque
Airport:
Bordeaux Airport
Train station:
Monsempron-Libos
Transfer:
Monsempron-Libos train station
Pick-up/ drop-off for this trip is possible from Monsempron-Libos train station for an extra fee.
Pick-up is scheduled for 6:30pm on Day 1. On the last day, you will leave the hotel after breakfast, and be dropped off at the train station around 9:00 am.
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Tack:
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Trail saddles custom-made for each horse and "Myler" bridle
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Horses:
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Arabian, Paint horses, and Arabian/Paint crossbreds.
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Pace:
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We ride moderate to fast paced
5-6 hours in the saddle per riding day
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
13
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Weight:
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Max
220 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
5 riders
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Max
10 riders
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Riding Ability
This ride is open to riders who are comfortable and in control at all 4 paces (walk, rising trot, canter and gallop in a forward seat) on varied terrain, in open spaces and practice a regular habit of riding. There are certain sections of the trail where we need to lead the horses. It is recommended that you be in good physical condition in order to participate. Previous experience of trail rides over a number of days would be beneficial but is not required.
Pace
The pace is varied depending on the terrain, with long periods of walk and plenty of opportunities to canter and gallop.
Horses
Most of our horses were born on the farm. They live in herds in a 70 acre field and this is what makes them strong. This social lifestyle is very close to their ideal living conditions, which is a natural environment.
Every horse has its own character, but all are gentle, balanced, and multi-talented.
The horses are a mixture of purebred Arabian and Paint horses as well as Arabian/Paint crossbreds and Thoroughbreds.
The relationship with the riders and our horses is crucial. Above all, we place attention on the welfare and education of our horses.
Tack
Our saddles are a French trail saddle (JMS brands), which blend the best of English and western styles to make the perfect trail saddle. Horses will work in bridles with Myler bits. Helmets are not mandatory but are strongly recommended.
Our team will take care of tacking up the horses during this ride.
Logistics
There is a support van for the transport of luggage and riders. It is possible for a rider or a non-riding companion to follow along the horse riders in the van.
We ask the riders to have only one suitcase (size 69x47x27) and one handbag.
Group Size & Staff
Riding groups have a minimum of 5 and maximum of 10 riders, plus the Guide and the Translator.
David (GTE/ BPJEPS TE) is a certified Equestrian Tour Guide. He creates the routes and leads all the riding tours. He is also a trainer of apprentice instructors in Equestrian Tourism.
Britta is your riding companion and translator (English, Dutch, German, and Spanish). She is always available to facilitate any language concerns.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except: (a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card. Passport NoteFranc. more
Rocamadour area
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Month
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Jan
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Feb
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Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
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Nov
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Dec
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Average High Temperature (°F)
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47
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51
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57
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62
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60
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76
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81
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80
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74
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5
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54
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49
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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35
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35
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39
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42
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48
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54
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57
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57
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52
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48
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40
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36
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Average High Temperature (°C)
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9
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11
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14
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17
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21
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24
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27
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27
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24
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19
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12
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9
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Average Low Temperature (°C)
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1
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2
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4
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6
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9
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12
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14
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14
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11
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9
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4
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2
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Average Precipitation (days of rain)
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11
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9
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10
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10
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11
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8
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6
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7
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7
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9
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10
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10
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Source: NOAA
Seasons
The Lot benefits from ideal weather for year-round riding as climate is usually dry and temperate. The average rainfall for the Dordogne Valley is about 140-160 mm per year.
Spring
Spring is quite an unstable season often characterized by a succession of rainy and sunny episodes during the same day. Temperatures are usually mild in March and April, getting warmer towards May. However, some cold snaps can be observed.
Summer
Summertime is usually hot, recording, at times, temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius. However, it rarely stays very hot for too long. July tends to register slightly higher temperatures than August.
Chances of rainfall are quite low, but summer storms can happen. At times, it can get a little windy, which helps cool down the summer heat.
Autumn
Autumn is a nice time to visit with wonderful colors, comfortable temperatures and low chances of rainfall.
Winter
Winters tend to get cold but are often quite sunny! It very rarely rains for a long period of time here.
The luggage is transported in vehicle and transferred to each accommodation. We ask that riders only bring one suitcase (69x47x27) and one handbag.
… this list is only a guideline for you
Hidden Trails Travel Documents and Trip Voucher (contains important local tour contact info.)
Flight tickets
Passport
Visa (check with your consulate)
RIDING GEAR
Riding pants or Jodhpurs
Riding boots (short) + Minichaps
Riding helmet (recommended for all trips)
Riding gloves
Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection
Lightweight Rain coat
A riding helmet is not provided by us, but is is recommended for adults and mandatory for minors during the horse ride.
PERSONAL CLOTHING
Jacket or sweater for cool evenings
Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts
Jeans
Shorts
Underwear and socks
Pyjamas
Bag for dirty clothes
Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes
Swimsuit
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING
Personal Toiletries
Insect protection - mosquitos may be around in the evenings and early mornings.
Personal medications
Sore cream (for an emergency)
Sewing kit
Torch/ Flashlight
Adapter for electric appliances
Camera and extra film or batteries
Belt pack
Address book and pen (for postcards!)
Sun glasses with strap
Sun protection lotion and lip balm
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
** No trip reports found
with the tour ID you provided.
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..view other reports for different trips
Accommodations
This is a progressive ride, so nights are spent in different locations.
Description
Accommodation is in B&B or hotels. Double or Twin room, possibility of single but with supplement.
Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Day 1: Hotel in Puy l’évêque
Day 2: B&B in Marminiac
Day 3: B&B in Le Vigan
Day 4: B&B in Rocamadour
Day 5: B&B in Rocamadour
Day 6: B&B in Souloumes
Day 7: Hotel in Puy l’évêque
Room Occupancy
We try our best to match you with a roommate, but if this is not possible you may be placed in single room with a supplement to be paid.
Meals
All meals are included.
Continental breakfasts served at your accommodation.
The lunches are buffets with a wide choice (adapted to particular diets) with wine.
Dinner in the bed and breakfast, restaurant or hotel (wine not included for dinner, and other extras).
Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to most dietary restrictions with prior notice.
This trip includes
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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Trail saddles custom-made for each horse and "Myler" bridle
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|
Horses:
|
|
Arabian, Paint horses, and Arabian/Paint crossbreds.
|
|
Pace:
|
|
We ride moderate to fast paced
5-6 hours in the saddle per riding day
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
13
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Weight:
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Max
220 lbs
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Riders:
|
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Min
5 riders
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Max
10 riders
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Riding Ability
This ride is open to riders who are comfortable and in control at all 4 paces (walk, rising trot, canter and gallop in a forward seat) on varied terrain, in open spaces and practice a regular habit of riding. There are certain sections of the trail where we need to lead the horses. It is recommended that you be in good physical condition in order to participate. Previous experience of trail rides over a number of days would be beneficial but is not required.
Pace
The pace is varied depending on the terrain, with long periods of walk and plenty of opportunities to canter and gallop.
Horses
Most of our horses were born on the farm. They live in herds in a 70 acre field and this is what makes them strong. This social lifestyle is very close to their ideal living conditions, which is a natural environment.
Every horse has its own character, but all are gentle, balanced, and multi-talented.
The horses are a mixture of purebred Arabian and Paint horses as well as Arabian/Paint crossbreds and Thoroughbreds.
The relationship with the riders and our horses is crucial. Above all, we place attention on the welfare and education of our horses.
Tack
Our saddles are a French trail saddle (JMS brands), which blend the best of English and western styles to make the perfect trail saddle. Horses will work in bridles with Myler bits. Helmets are not mandatory but are strongly recommended.
Our team will take care of tacking up the horses during this ride.
Logistics
There is a support van for the transport of luggage and riders. It is possible for a rider or a non-riding companion to follow along the horse riders in the van.
We ask the riders to have only one suitcase (size 69x47x27) and one handbag.
Group Size & Staff
Riding groups have a minimum of 5 and maximum of 10 riders, plus the Guide and the Translator.
David (GTE/ BPJEPS TE) is a certified Equestrian Tour Guide. He creates the routes and leads all the riding tours. He is also a trainer of apprentice instructors in Equestrian Tourism.
Britta is your riding companion and translator (English, Dutch, German, and Spanish). She is always available to facilitate any language concerns.
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except:
(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Passport Note
France is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for the following durations:
(a) nationals of EU countries for an unlimited period;
(b) nationals of Australia, Canada and the USA for stays of up to 90 days.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
1 |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
No |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Old Stones and Lot Villages
Tour Code:
IT-FRABR07
8 days /
7 nights
~$2,100.00
Dates :
April
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner
 | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
Lodging:
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accommodation
Tack:
Trail saddles custom-made for each hor...
Horses:
Arabian, Paint horses, and Arabian/Pai...
Pace:
We ride moderate to fast paced
...
Walk,
Trot,
Canter,
Gallop,
Airport:
Bordeaux Airport
Location on Google Map
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Customer Trip Rating
Climate
What To Bring
Download tour PDF
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